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“There is no doubt in my mind that the McMaster Cardiac Rehabilitation Program has contributed to my success as a long-term transplant survivor”

In October 1989, I received a heart transplant at London Health Sciences University Hospital six days after suffering a massive heart attack. Following three months of treatment as an outpatient including six weeks of physiotherapy sessions, I was discharged and returned to Hamilton. I vowed to take better care of myself in consideration of receiving this second chance at life. Since regular exercise plays an important role in a healthy lifestyle and after attempting to exercise unsuccessfully at home, I decided to look into facilities in the community. In February 1991, I became aware of the Cardiac Rehabilitation Program at McMaster University and entered the program shortly thereafter. That was over 27 years ago and since then I have become a dedicated member of the MacCardiac Program exercising regularly in a bright, well equipped facility under the supervision of attentive, qualified staff. Many other men and woman of like needs attend and over time a spirit of camaraderie has grown. There is no doubt in my mind that the McMaster Cardiac Rehabilitation Program has contributed to my success as a long-term transplant survivor; one who has enjoyed and continues to enjoy a healthy lifestyle.

“The work being conducted by McMaster’s Physical Activity Centre of Excellence is truly nothing short of excellent.”

The work being conducted by McMaster’s Physical Activity Centre of Excellence is truly nothing short of excellent. It’s always so inspiring to see clients first arrive, often feeling a little low or defeated by their bodies and leaving feeling like they have so much they can accomplish. Working as a volunteer in PACE for the past two years has undoubtedly been one of my favourite aspects of my undergraduate degree because not only does it make you feel like you're making a difference, but it’s amazing to be surrounded by individuals working so hard to improve their health. Time and time again, I’ve had clients gush about how much this place means to them, and how much stronger they feel because of PACE, both physically and mentally. I’ve never heard of a program quite like PACE, and it’s clear that it’s not only touched me, but so many others in our community.

“I love being a MacWarrior!”

I love being a MacWarrior! A diagnosis of cancer, and the subsequent surgeries and treatments are very challenging, and take a physical and emotional toll on your body, heart, and mind. Many of us are blessed to have a circle of family and friends who surround us with love, positive energy, and hope. The Mac Warriors program builds on this circle by adding another source of strength and healing. A skilled physiotherapist, and a phenomenal team of professionals and students work together with us to create a fitness program that is designed for our special and unique needs. The team understands the challenges of those dealing with cancer and works with us on an individual basis to strengthen our bodies and minds. When I started with the Mac Warriors program 6 months ago, I could not stand up from a sitting position in a chair without using my arms to help me to get up. Now, I am not only leaping out of a chair, but I am also doing planks, push-ups and lunges! The Mac Warriors team guides us, supports us, and celebrates our accomplishments every step of the way. In addition to becoming stronger and fitter, I am also a member of the Mac Warriors community and have another circle of friends and support around me. Meeting these friends and collaborating together within the Mac Warriors community is the BEST side effect of cancer treatments. The Mac Warriors program changes lives … I know because it changed mine … and I am incredibly grateful!